August boasts not one, but two recognized birthstones: peridot and spinel. Both offer unique histories, geological origins, and gemological properties, making August birthdays particularly rich in gemstone symbolism. While peridot has a longer-standing association with the month, spinel’s recent recognition as a modern birthstone adds to the diversity of options available to those seeking a meaningful gemstone. This article will explore the characteristics, history, and significance of both peridot and spinel, drawing upon available knowledge of these fascinating gems.
A History Rooted in Misidentification and Royal Adornment
The history of both peridot and spinel is intertwined with instances of mistaken identity. For centuries, vibrant red spinel was often misidentified as ruby, even appearing in some of history’s most famous pieces of jewelry. The approximately 170-carat “ruby” in the Black Prince’s collection, for example, was later determined to be a spinel, and it remains set in Great Britain’s Imperial State Crown. This misidentification highlights the visual similarities between the two stones and the challenges faced by early gemologists lacking modern analytical tools.
Peridot, too, has a rich history. Ancient civilizations valued peridot, believing it possessed healing properties, particularly for ailments related to the blood. Red gems, including spinel when mistaken for ruby, were also thought to be remedies for blood loss and inflammatory diseases, and were believed to ease anger and promote harmony. The association of gemstones with healing and protection dates back to biblical times, with the twelve stones adorning the breastplate of Aaron representing the twelve tribes of Israel. While the direct lineage from the breastplate stones to modern birthstones is complex, scholars like Flavius Josephus and St. Jerome in the 1st and 5th centuries AD attempted to correlate these gems with the signs of the zodiac, laying the groundwork for the birthstone tradition.
Geological Formation and Global Sources
Peridot originates from a fascinating geological process. It forms deep within the Earth’s mantle and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Specifically, massive volcanic eruptions have been responsible for deposits of peridot, such as those found on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation in Arizona, a primary source for this August birthstone in the United States. Interestingly, peridot has even been discovered within meteorites, specifically pallasites composed of nickel-iron and olivine, offering a truly extraterrestrial origin for some specimens. Myanmar (formerly Burma) also yields high-quality peridot, characterized by deep color and superb transparency, found on the northern slope of Kyaukpon.
Spinel’s formation is less directly linked to volcanic eruptions. Major sources of spinel include Tajikistan, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Pakistan. Spinel from Myanmar is particularly noted for producing stones of arresting color, especially vibrant pink and red hues. The name “spinel” itself comes from the Latin word spina, meaning thorn, referencing the characteristic shape of spinel crystals.
Gemological Properties: Distinguishing Characteristics
Both peridot and spinel possess distinct gemological properties that differentiate them. Peridot, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, is relatively soft compared to many other gemstones, making it unsuitable for daily wear in rings. It is vulnerable to thermal shock and should not be cleaned with steam or ultrasonic cleaners. Peridot’s color is consistently light in saturation and tone, ranging from blue to blue-green.
Spinel, on the other hand, boasts a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than peridot. It exhibits a wider range of colors, including intense red, vibrant pink, orange, purple, violet, blue, and bluish-green. Spinel’s chemical formula is Be3Al2(SiO3)6, classifying it as a cyclosilicate. It has a vitreous to resinous luster and a white streak. Its specific gravity is 2.76.
A comparison of hardness on the Mohs scale is shown below:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Talc | 1 |
| Gypsum | 2 |
| Calcite | 3 |
| Fluorite | 4 |
| Apatite | 5 |
| Orthoclase | 6 |
| Quartz | 7 |
| Topaz | 8 |
| Corundum | 9 |
| Diamond | 10 |
Symbolism and Modern Interpretations
Throughout history, gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Peridot has been associated with protection, particularly for seafarers, stemming from its name, which derives from the Latin word for “seawater” (aqua marina). Some also associate aquamarine with marital happiness and superior intellect.
Red spinel, when mistaken for ruby, inherited the symbolism associated with that gemstone – courage, passion, and protection. Spinel, in general, is believed to promote emotional healing and clearing of energy, and is used to amplify intentions for accelerated manifestation. Herkimer diamond, a related crystal, is believed to bring expansion of consciousness and purification.
In modern times, birthstones are often chosen based on personal preference and aesthetic appeal. The addition of spinel as a modern August birthstone provides a wider range of options, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. While traditional gems like turquoise and pearl remain popular, the availability of modern alternatives like spinel and citrine allows individuals to select a stone that resonates with them on a personal level.
Care and Cleaning Considerations
Due to its lower hardness, peridot requires careful handling and cleaning. As previously mentioned, steam and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided due to the risk of thermal shock. A soft-bristle brush with mild dish soap in warm water is the safest method for cleaning peridot. It should also be stored carefully to prevent scratching by harder gemstones.
Spinel, being more durable, is less susceptible to damage. However, it is still advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is recommended.
Conclusion
Peridot and spinel, the dual birthstones of August, represent a fascinating blend of history, geology, and symbolism. From ancient beliefs in their healing properties to modern interpretations of their energetic qualities, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire. While peridot offers a consistent green hue and a connection to the sea, spinel presents a vibrant spectrum of colors and a legacy of royal adornment. Both stones provide August-born individuals with a meaningful and beautiful connection to the world of gemstones.